Mary Upton (Dublin South Central, Labour)

As regards amendment No. 5, a very important point was being made in relation to the dean of the faculty of veterinary medicine at UCD. As I have pointed out, it is the only school of veterinary medicine on the island. By tradition the dean holds a very specific role of responsibility within the faculty. It would be appropriate that as the representative of that body of professional veterinarians, and the educators, particularly, the dean of the faculty should be given a position on the council. Traditionally, this role has been held by the faculty of veterinary medicine.

I also take account of what Deputy Naughten said regarding HETAC. While I am promoting the dean of the faculty of veterinary medicine, UCD — I regard this as very important — I accept the role of HETAC, the other awarding body for the veterinary profession, namely veterinary nurses. Some account should be taken, in particular, of that role as well. I accept this is its first year and that awards have not yet been conferred. Nevertheless, HETAC clearly will be the awarding body and it is very important it is recognised in that role and has parity, at least, with the faculty of veterinary medicine for which I am arguing.

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